Translation guide
A person you trust with private matters. Japanese has several words for this, but the most natural choice depends on the relationship and context. Direct translations can sound literary or old-fashioned; in casual speech, people often describe the relationship instead.
A trusted friend you share secrets or personal problems with.
Best friend; implies a deep, trusting relationship. Commonly used for a confidant in everyday speech.
彼は私の親友で、何でも相談できる。
He's my best friend; I can talk to him about anything.
A friend you can open your heart to. Emphasizes emotional safety.
彼女は私が心を許せる数少ない友達の一人だ。
She's one of the few friends I can really open up to.
A trusted confidant or right-hand person. Often used in historical or political contexts. Sounds formal and somewhat dramatic in modern conversation.
彼は社長の腹心として知られている。
He is known as the president's confidant.
Someone you tell confidential information to, possibly in a specific context like work or therapy.
A person you consult or talk to about problems. Neutral and widely used for a confidant in various settings.
彼女は私の良き相談相手です。
She is a good confidant for me.
A person you can confide secrets to. Descriptive and clear.
彼は私が秘密を打ち明けられる唯一の人だ。
He is the only person I can confide my secrets to.
An older or more experienced person you confide in for guidance.
An advisor or counselor. Often used in professional contexts, but can apply to personal confidants who give advice.
彼は私の人生の相談役です。
He is my life advisor/confidant.
A reliable person you can count on. Implies trust and dependability.
彼女はいつも頼りになる人だ。
She is always someone I can rely on (as a confidant).
The English word 'confidant' often sounds overly formal or literary in Japanese. In casual conversation, it's more natural to describe the relationship (e.g., 'someone I can talk to about anything') rather than using a single noun.
親友 implies a mutual, deep friendship. 相談相手 focuses on the role of being a listener/advisor and doesn't necessarily require a close personal bond.
Literally 'pocket knife'; metaphorically a trusted right-hand man or confidant, especially in political or business circles. Very idiomatic.
彼は総理の懐刀と呼ばれている。
He is called the prime minister's confidant.